The Essence of Han (한): That Indescribable Emotion
“It’s understandable that Koreans believe themselves particularly cursed.”
Category: Korean Culture
Shamans in Korean Supernatural Thrillers
A shaman is someone able to transcend the barrier between the two worlds.
The Confucianization of Women’s Hairstyles in Joseon Korea
Just as there were a variety of hairstyles and headwear available for men, there were many available for women, too.
The Land of Hats
Why hats? Today, hats are primarily seen as a fashion accessory, but hair has always held a great deal of symbolic significance in societies. Joseon Korea (1392–1897) was no exception: Hairstyles and the various accessories used to maintain and decorate them during the Joseon Dynasty were imbued with sociocultural meaning.
Hot Dog! It’s Summertime in Korea
“Every dog has its day.”
Samgye-tang for the Heat, Pork for Pollution
The heat of summer is quickly approaching, and the air quality index for Gwangju is outside the “good” zone for most of the year; indeed, it was high in the … Read More
Ringing in the New Year… Again!
Korea’s Lunar Legacy. By David Shaffer. When I was young and growing up in North America, New Year’s was a special event. My parents and their best friends, who lived … Read More
Valentine’s Day
Pagan, Christian, Folkloric, Commercial. On Tuesday, February 14, much of the world, Christian and otherwise, celebrates Valentine’s Day. But what is the story behind this much observed day? The origin … Read More